2024-2025 Contribution Limits
Gold IRAs follow the same annual contribution limits as traditional and Roth IRAs.
Under Age 50
$7,000
Annual contribution limit
Age 50 and Over
$8,000
Includes $1,000 catch-up
Note: Rollovers from existing 401(k)s or IRAs do not count against these limits. You can roll over any amount tax-free.
Traditional vs. Roth Gold IRA
Traditional Gold IRA
- •Contributions may be tax-deductible
- •Growth is tax-deferred
- •Distributions taxed as ordinary income
- •Required Minimum Distributions at age 73
Roth Gold IRA
- •Contributions are not tax-deductible
- •Growth is tax-free
- •Qualified distributions are tax-free
- •No Required Minimum Distributions
Prohibited Transactions
The IRS strictly forbids "self-dealing" with IRA assets. Violating these rules results in immediate taxation of the entire account plus potential penalties.
Strictly Prohibited Actions:
- ✗Store IRA metals at home. Your metal must be held by an IRS-approved depository. "Home storage IRAs" are exceedingly risky and often non-compliant.
- ✗Buy metals from yourself or family. You cannot sell your personal metal to your IRA or buy IRA metal for personal use.
- ✗Use IRA metals as collateral. You cannot pledge IRA assets for loans or other personal benefit.
- ✗Take physical possession before distribution. Until you take an official distribution, the metal must remain in approved storage.
Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)
For Traditional Gold IRAs, you must begin taking distributions at age 73 (as of 2023 rules). Roth IRAs have no RMD requirement during the owner's lifetime.
Option 1: Cash Distribution
The most common option. Metal is sold within the IRA, and you receive the cash proceeds. This is taxed as ordinary income for Traditional IRAs.
Option 2: In-Kind Distribution
You can receive the physical metal itself. The fair market value at the time of distribution is the taxable amount. The metal is shipped directly to you.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute tax advice. Consult a qualified tax professional regarding your specific situation. Tax laws change—verify current rules with the IRS or your tax advisor.
Questions About Gold IRA Taxes?
We can explain how the process works regarding dealers and custodians. For tax advice specific to your situation, we'll recommend you consult a tax professional.